Vimscript save file

Question

I am making a function to compile and run my application. I have been able to get it to run the shell command however I cannot get it to save the file.

Here is my code so far.

Try 1)

function Compile_and_run(game, major, minor)
    :w <CR>
    execute '!_compile' shellescape(a:game) shellescape(a:major) shellescape(a:minor)
endfunction

Try 2)

function Compile_and_run(game, major, minor)
    execute ":w <CR>"
    execute '!_compile' shellescape(a:game) shellescape(a:major) shellescape(a:minor)
endfunction

What is it that Im doing wrong? How would I get this function to save before the execute '!_compile' command?

Answer 1

Something like :w<CR> makes sense for creating a Normal mode mapping. In Normal mode, you need the : to enter Command-line mode, and the <CR> to execute the command and return to Normal mode.

Writing VimScript

Here, since you're writing VimScript, every line is interpreted as if it's in Command-line mode already. You don't need to lead with a : (though it's harmless if you do), and you don't need the <CR> to execute the command (and in this case, it's incorrect to use it).

You only need write (or w for short) in this context.

function Compile_and_run(game, major, minor)
    write
    execute '!_compile' shellescape(a:game) shellescape(a:major) shellescape(a:minor)
endfunction

Take a look at :help vim-script-intro to learn more.